Gadolinium Injuries (NSF/NFD Lawsuits)

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF, sometimes called NFD for nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy) is a painful, crippling disorder that has only recently been discovered. First described in 2000, the first case was identified in 1997. The disorder has since been strongly correlated with the use of gadolinium-based contrast agents for improving the image quality of MRIs. Gadolinium is a heavy metal, and like many heavy metals it can be toxic to the body. Normally, people are not exposed to high levels of gadolinium, and it was only with the development of gadolinium-based contrast agents that many people began to have significant exposures to gadolinium. The appearance of NSF shortly thereafter does not appear to be a coincidence, and the majority of cases of the disease seem related to the use of gadolinium-based contrast agents. As a result, the FDA has ordered that all gadolinium-based contrast agents carry a "black box" warning about the risk of NSF. A black box warning is the strongest warning the FDA can put on a dangerous drug.

If you have developed NSF after exposure to a gadolinium-based contrast agent, you may be eligible for compensation to help you cope with the long-term effects of your illness. To learn more, please use our online form or call 1-800-INJURED to schedule a free case evaluation today.

What is NSF?

NSF is a debilitating and potentially fatal disorder that is only seen in people with kidney disease or decreased renal function. Exposure to gadolinium-based contrast agents seem to dramatically increase the risk of the condition. In NSF, the skin and connective tissues throughout the body become fibrous and inflexible. It often begins in the legs, but it can begin anywhere. Once begun, NSF can spread to all areas of the skin and deep into the body. As it affects the muscles and major organs, it can lead to permanent disability and death.

Early symptoms of NSF include:

• Itching, burning, or inflammation of the skin
• Tightening of the skin
• Thickening of the skin
• Skin lesions
• Blister-like lesions and swelling of the hands and feet
• Muscle weakness
• Limited joint mobility
• Yellow plaques in or near the eyes

Although many people see symptoms shortly after receiving an MRI with a gadolinium-based contrast agent, it may take weeks, or even years for the symptoms to appear.

There is no cure for NSF. About half of the people who develop it become severely disabled. Most suffering from ongoing pain and a gradual worsening condition. Many die.

Do You Have a Lawsuit?

If you have developed NSF after receiving an MRI with a gadolinium-based contrast agent, you may be eligible for compensation to help you cover the results of your injury including:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Ongoing disability and reduced earning capacity
• Diminished quality of life
• Pain and suffering

The pharmaceutical injury lawyers at The Cochran Firm Wisconsin are prepared to fight for your rights and ensure that you and those who depend on you are taken care of despite your injury. Please use our online form or call us at 1-800-INJURED to schedule a free case evaluation.